At the request of a co-sponsor, Republican City County Council Member Benjamin Hunter, the measure has been returned to committee for further study.

Tim Filler, a Spokesman for Smoke Free Indy, expressed disappointment that the council didn't vote to approve the ban.

The bill would prohibit patrons from lighting up in bars, bowling alleys and nightclubs, broadening an existing law that prohibits smoking in most public places, including restaurants that serve minors.

A council committee voted to endorse the ban in October, advancing it to the full membership for consideration.

Council members tabled the issue when it fell short of the 15 votes needed to either pass or fail.